Raw Chocolate

Raw foodists believe in eating uncooked, unprocessed, and often organic foods as a large percentage of their diet.  Sometimes called superfoods, raw foods are often vegetables and plant derived products, but not always (raw milk, for example). 

Raw cacao, cocoa powder, and chocolate are considered superfoods because they deliver great amounts of antioxidants and other essentials like calcium, iron, carotene, thiamine, riboflavin, and magnesium.  In general, superfoods are rich in phytochemicals which are known for their disease fighting properties.

Raw cacao nibs are not roasted but still have a good crunch.  Raw chocolate is going to be a very different experience compared to a typical chocolate bar.  Texturally, raw chocolate tends to be grainy and fudgy and usually there is no snap.  Raw chocolate does not contain sugar (sucrose) or milk so the flavor is remarkably intense and fairly bitter.

Raw chocolate is often used as a coating.  In keeping with the superfoods theme, these chocolate coated items tend to be superfood berries, like acai and goji, as well as organic nuts and seeds.

The number of raw chocolate products is growing and the flavor/texture constantly improving.  The current market place is expanding so don’t be surprised if you start hearing more about raw chocolate! 

End note: I have not had the privilege to taste these particular raw chocolates, but Earth Source Organics has a selection called Righteously Raw chocolate bars, and has recently announced a new addition called the Rose Bar.  You might want to check it out at www.EarthSourceOrganics.com.

Bryn Kirk

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